Royal Alcázar of Seville

Seville is the beating heart of Andalusia, filled with flamenco rhythms, orange-scented streets, and jaw-dropping architecture. Whether you're wandering through royal palaces or getting lost in narrow old town alleys, Seville leaves an unforgettable impression. 🌟 Top 5 Places to Visit Real Alcázar – A stunning royal palace blending Moorish and Christian styles. Book tickets in advance to avoid long lines, especially in high season. Don’t miss the lush gardens! Seville Cathedral & La Giralda – One of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, home to Columbus’s tomb. Climb the Giralda tower for panoramic views. Plaza de España – An architectural marvel in Maria Luisa Park. Come in the morning for quiet photos or late afternoon for golden light. Metropol Parasol (Las Setas) – A modern wooden structure with a skywalk offering sweeping city views. Visit at sunset for dramatic lighting. Barrio Santa Cruz – The former Jewish quarter is perfect for a slow stroll through history, tapas stops, and hidden courtyards. 🛏️ Where to Stay Stay in Santa Cruz or Arenal for walking-distance access to major sights and charming vibes. If you prefer a quieter stay, Triana across the river offers a more local feel. 🎭 Must Experiences Flamenco show in an intimate venue like Casa de la Memoria or a neighborhood peña. Tapas crawl: don’t miss local favorites like salmorejo, espinacas con garbanzos, and jamón ibérico. Evening walk along the Guadalquivir River, with views of Torre del Oro and lively terraces. Semana Santa or Feria de Abril if your timing’s right. This represents one of Spain’s most iconic festivals. #spain #westerneurope #seville

Look for traditional, no-frills tapas bar in the neighborhood that is favored by locals. You can't go wrong with classics like the tosta de salmorejo (a thick, cold tomato soup served on toast) and punta de solomillo (pork tenderloin tip). Mercado de la Calle Feria: Seville's oldest food market, located in the authentic Macarena district. This market offers authentic local food stalls where locals gather to eat and socialize. Real Alcázar: An exquisite private palace belonging to the Spanish royal family. It offers a beautiful and interesting look at Sevillian architecture and history. #europe #spain #seville #authentic #food #travel #thingstodo

Come to Spain 🇪🇸 just for these 17 photos Spain is still too comprehensive. Pic 1 - Hotel Colon Barcelona, Cathedral View Room Pic 2 - Dear Hotel Madrid, Rooftop Terrace Pic 3 - Carmel Hill Sunset, Barcelona (telephoto lens for compression effect) Pic 4 - Blanes Botanical Garden (near Barcelona) Pic 5 - Alhambra Palace, Granada Pics 6.7 - Tossa (near Barcelona) Pics 8.9 - Colomares Monument (near Malaga) Pics 10.11.12 - Plaza de España, Seville Pics 13.14.15 - Frigiliana (near Malaga) Pics 16.17 - Nerja (near Malaga)

#celebrateit Besides the intricate palace (check out the earlier post), the garden section of real alcazar is worth exploring too. Overall, you might really wanna vacant out 2 hours minimum for the entire real alcazar. Few crucial things to note before going to Real Alcazar of Seville: 1) book in advance - it’s easily to be sold out even not during peak seasons 2) bring your passport - admission ticket is associated with passport, no passport no entry 3) keep tight to the booked time slot - they only allowed 30 mins interval, and many google reviews mentioned about getting denied after being late 4) google maps “Lion Head entrance” - do not just search “real alcazar of Seville”, it would be close to 15min away from the real entrance, which could cause you late

The Seville Royal Palace is one of the oldest royal palaces in Europe, originally built in 1181. Over the centuries, it has undergone renovations and expansions under various dynasties, blending Islamic, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural styles, making it uniquely captivating. Stepping into the palace feels like entering a magical world. The Pedro Palace is resplendent, with exquisite murals and opulent decorations that showcase royal grandeur and luxury. The Courtyard of the Maidens exudes Islamic charm, surrounded by arches and featuring a serene pond at its center, encircled by vibrant flowers, creating a tranquil and elegant atmosphere. The gardens within the palace are equally remarkable, with lush greenery, blooming flowers, and intricate fountains and sculptures adorning the space. Strolling through the gardens, one can sense the weight of history and the passage of time. The palace also served as a filming location for the popular TV series "Game of Thrones," drawing countless fans eager to explore iconic scenes and experience the fascinating blend of reality and fiction.

Don't miss this meticulously prepared 8-day travel guide for your first visit to Spain, making your journey even more exciting! Spain, rich in history and unique landscapes! 🏰 The Alhambra Palace witnesses the legacy of the Moors, 🌅 the Seville Cathedral showcases Gothic charm. 🍷 Savor Rioja wine and feel the passion and exuberance of the Spanish people! 🛤️ Itinerary Day 1: Gothic Quarter - Picasso Museum in Barcelona - La Rambla - Sagrada Familia Traverse history and modernity, appreciating the close combination of art and architecture. Day 2: Park Güell - Casa Milà - Casa Batlló - Passeig de Gràcia An in-depth experience of Gaudí and modernist architecture. Day 3: Silk Exchange in Valencia - Plaza de la Reina Feel the ancient charm and bustling atmosphere of this city. Day 4: Alhambra Palace Admire the splendor of Moorish architecture and the weight of history. Day 5: New Bridge in Ronda - Old Bridge - Ronda Bullring - Flamenco Dance Museum Experience the passion and spirit of Ronda, and feel the rhythm and passion of Flamenco. Day 6: Royal Alcázar of Seville - Seville Cathedral - Metropol Parasol - Plaza de España In Seville, the perfect blend of history, art, and modernity awaits your discovery. Day 7: Royal Palace of Madrid - Puerta del Sol - Plaza Mayor The heart of Madrid, where history and modern vitality intertwine. Day 8: Toledo Cathedral - San Martin Bridge - Old Town of Toledo Stroll through the ancient city of Toledo, feeling the thousand-year history and cultural heritage. ### Notes: - Specialty Prices: Spanish specialties such as leather goods and handicrafts are affordable and make great souvenirs! 🎁 - Visa Information: You need to apply for a visa in advance to ensure a smooth trip to Spain. 📖 - Time Difference: Spain is about 6-7 hours behind China, so remember to adjust your schedule! ⏰ - Airport Transportation: Airports in Barcelona, Madrid, etc., have convenient transportation options, including taxis and subways. 🚖🚇 - Safety Tips: Pay attention to your personal belongings in crowded areas and always be aware of your surroundings. 🔒 - Language Communication: While English is commonly used in tourist areas, learning a few basic Spanish phrases can be more convenient! 🗣️ - Dining Time: Spaniards have dinner late, usually starting after 9 PM, so follow the local customs! 🍽️ - Respect Local Customs: Dress appropriately in places like churches, avoiding shorts or sleeveless tops. 👗 🎉 Come to Spain and feel the passion and romance! Like, save, and follow me for more exciting travel guides! 🌍✨

When the Andalusian sunlight filters through the carved arcades of the Royal Alcázar of Seville, casting interlaced shadows on the glazed tiles, I suddenly understood why this place was chosen as the "Water Palace" of Dorne in the globally popular TV series Game of Thrones in recent years—every step treads the boundary between reality and legend, where a millennium of time condenses into a magnificent and profound dialogue of civilizations. As the oldest royal palace in Europe still in use, this architectural treasure, inscribed as a World Heritage Site in 1987, carries the most moving history of cultural fusion in Spain. In 913 AD, the Moors laid the first cornerstone here. Originally a sturdy military fortress, it has been continuously rewritten with new chapters over the course of time. After the Christian kings reconquered Seville in 1248, they did not destroy the former Islamic buildings but instead added to them; during the reign of Pedro I, the Mudéjar style reached its peak, allowing the intricate Islamic carvings and the solemn Christian spirit to coexist perfectly. I remember visiting Kaifeng this August to "seek Song," where I saw the not-yet-opened attraction "City upon City," six ancient cities stacked like thread-bound books. Yet this European palace fuses Moorish spirit with Renaissance, blending and flattening diverse living civilizations as a witness—every inch of its texture silently tells the millennium-old promise of "you in me, I in you." Passing through the lintel adorned with lion-patterned glaze, the strong lines of Mudéjar architecture unexpectedly meet the soft curves of Renaissance ironwork. The walls covered with tile facings dazzle the eyes: geometric patterns and entwined plant vines interweave as if weaving the codes of two civilizations into one splendid tapestry. Entering the "Courtyard of the Maidens," you step into the heart of this dialogue of civilizations. The elegant curves of the white marble arcades reflect on the clear water of the central pool; as the breeze passes, ripples break the light into thousands of golden flakes. Looking up at the dome, the intricate wood carvings amaze—every inch engraved with endlessly growing vines and flowers. Sunlight flows down through the carved gaps, and even the air seems soaked with the warmth of fusion—this is the harmonious dance of Moorish craftsmen’s rational order and Renaissance painters’ emotional colors, half ethereal and transcendent Islamic, half dignified and elegant European court. The details of the "Palace of Pedro I" take one’s breath away: the plaster carvings are as light as clouds, with intertwined Arabic inscriptions and Christian symbols blending seamlessly. Running your fingers over the walls, you seem to touch the flowing veins of time. The gilded dome of the Ambassador’s Hall is exquisite—the huge dome tapers from base to top, covered with intricate gold and blue patterns. Standing in the hall, your voice is wrapped in a marvelous echo that slowly spreads, instantly conveying the awe felt by envoys from various countries in those days. The most wonderful are the corner tiles: the blue glaze beloved by the Moors meets the bright Renaissance paintings, not clashing but harmonizing like musicians playing different parts in a symphony. The "Royal Gardens" are the final surprise. Walking through maze-like paths, fountains and ponds murmur everywhere, harmonizing with crisp bird songs, instantly dispelling the heat of southern Europe. These water features inherit Islamic tradition, symbolizing the "Fountain of Life." Wandering among them, one truly feels the tranquility gently wrapped by nature and history. At that moment, noisy calls come from the branches—a flock of red-collared green parrots, never seen before, perch atop the palm trees—they have lived here for a century, a vivid testament to the palace’s cultural inclusiveness. When one parrot pecks open a flower bud and turns its head, its emerald feathers shimmer in the sunlight, as if telling: —History is never cold words in old books; this thousand-year-old royal palace has long since transformed under the bright sky into a tangible, perceptible, and deeply readable scroll of civilization.

Seville is pure historical magic — winding old town alleys, jaw-dropping palaces, and hotels that seriously know how to spoil you 🌸🔥 The coolest part? Everything is walkable, packed with centuries-old vibes, and sprinkled with modern comforts. Must-See Places in Seville: 1. Royal Alcázar of Seville (Casco Antiguo, 41004 Seville): Open Apr–Sep 09:30–19:00, Oct–Mar 09:30–17:00. Entry is €14.50. Get there early to beat the crowds! The Lion Gate entrance (C. Miguel Mañara, s/n) puts you right inside an architectural wonder — think dazzling tiles, tranquil gardens, and peacocks strutting around for your selfies 🦚. 2. Centro Historico de Sevilla: Lose yourself in cobblestone lanes, tapas bars, and flamenco energy. Strolling here is the best way to soak up old-town charm. 3. Plaza del Triunfo & Archivo General de Indias: These spots are neighbors to the Alcázar and Cathedral, perfect for quick photo stops and historical deep-dives. Where to Stay: Hotel Legado Alcazar (C. Mariana de Pineda, 18) is right next to major sights, yet it’s super tranquil. The à la carte breakfast is delicious (think healthy, fresh choices), rooms are spacious and unique (some with glass floors over ruins!), and the staff go out of their way to help — bonus tea time with free snacks! Halo Boutique Hotel (C. Gloria, 3) offers big, comfy rooms, private patios, and a rooftop pool — epic for beating Seville’s heat. Book the super king beds if you can. The staff rock, breakfast’s fresh, and the vibe is seriously chill. Local Hacks: Seville is super walkable, so skip taxis and enjoy getting lost. Aim for early mornings at top sights to avoid queues. For money, cards are widely accepted, but small change helps at traditional tapas bars. Roughly April to September is hot — pack light, drink lots, and make use of those hotel pools! #SevilleSpain #TravelTips #AlcazarViews #OldTownWander #tripdotcom

#mediterraneanvibes 📍 Royal Alcázar of Seville, Spain Atmosphere/Decoration: Stepping into the Alcázar felt like entering a hidden palace from a storybook. The walls were covered in detailed tiles, and the gardens were full of fountains, orange trees, and quiet corners. Highlight: The Hall of Ambassadors was stunning — a golden dome above and reflections everywhere. I also loved sitting in the garden café, listening to the sound of water and birds. Rating: 10/10 – Absolutely unforgettable. The beauty, calm, and history all come together perfectly in this place. #familytrip

The Proper Way to Explore Barcelona 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 1️⃣ Casa Batlló: A Fairy Tale of the Underwater Dragon Palace First Impression: Is this really an apartment? It looks more like the spine of a slumbering dragon beneath the sea! The colorful mosaic tiles shimmer like scales under the sunlight, the balconies resemble mysterious masks, and the window frames capture the stillness of water waves. Every curve seems to breathe—no sharp angles, only the rhythm of life. 2️⃣ Casa Milà: The Breath of the Earth and Waves of Stone Exterior: Locals call it "The Quarry." Its massive limestone facade resembles cliffs sculpted by wind and water over eons. The heavy stone transforms into light, undulating waves on the rooftop. The uniquely shaped chimneys and ventilation towers appear as spirits formed from the earth's exhalations. Overlooking Barcelona from here is a surreal experience! Gaudí once said, "Straight lines belong to humans, curves belong to God." Casa Milà is like a soft sand dune molded by divine hands from stone. Another Andalusian Gem: Córdoba 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 Located in the Andalusian region, Córdoba's history dates back to Roman times when it was a significant trade and military hub. During Moorish rule (8th to 13th centuries), it flourished as a center of science, literature, and art in the Islamic world, once becoming one of Spain's most prosperous cities. 🎈 The Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba (Mezquita-Catedral): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this grand mosque-turned-cathedral showcases a blend of Moorish and Spanish architectural styles. It reflects the cultural fusion and coexistence of religions during the Muslim rule. 🕌 Granada The Alhambra Palace is the pinnacle of Arab palace garden art. Built by the Emirate of Granada during the Moorish period, it is known as the "Palace City" and a "Wonder of the World." Seville | Area Metropolitana de Sevilla A trip to Spain is incomplete without experiencing a Flamenco performance. Flamenco, a national treasure of Spain, combines guitar, singing, and dance, embodying the fusion of Gypsy culture and Andalusian folk traditions. Once a livelihood for wandering Gypsies, Flamenco has evolved into a globally celebrated art form under the Spanish government's patronage. 🕌 The Royal Alcázar of Seville is a masterpiece of Spanish-Islamic architecture. The Chapel of Bones combines Gothic and Manueline styles, with its interior adorned with human bones, creating a poignant connection between death and beauty. ✨ Spain and Portugal, the two dazzling jewels of the Iberian Peninsula, are like a rich history book intertwined with a vibrant painting, waiting for travelers to explore and admire.

‼️ In short: 1️⃣ route to fully explore the essence of Seville and capture stunning photos without people! Personally walked 20,000 steps but totally worth it 👇 --- 🚶‍♀️ Route order (lazy people just copy this!) Metropol Parasol → Seville Cathedral → Royal Alcázar of Seville (around 16:00) → Plaza de España → Old Town dinner + stroll --- 🌅 10:00 AM: Check in at the "Magical Mushroom" Metropol Parasol 📍Highlight: The world's largest wooden structure! Super futuristic❗ 📸 Photo tip: Shoot upward at the "mushroom" structure for a strong visual impact! ⏰ Duration: 1h 💡 Tips: Early morning fewer people! Soft light for the best shots! --- ⛪ 11:30 AM: The world's largest Gothic cathedral 📍Highlight: The burial place of Columbus! 🎫 Tickets: Remember to buy in advance on the official website if you want to enter❗ ⏰ Duration: 2h (the cathedral is huge), even just exploring outside is great --- 🏰 4:00 PM: Rush to the Game of Thrones Dorne Palace! 📍Highlight: The original model of the Dorne Palace in Game of Thrones, feel like stepping into the show! 📸 Photo spots: 1. Maiden’s Courtyard (Patio de las Doncellas): Symmetrical underwater reflection shots, absolutely stunning! 2. Ambassador’s Hall Golden Dome: Look up! Starry sky sparkle feeling! 3. Garden Maze: Green archways + fountains, every shot looks like a painting! 🎫 Tickets: Must book in advance on the official website! 💡 Tips: Free maps at the entrance! Use the map to find Game of Thrones photo spots! --- 🌇 8:00 PM: Head to Plaza de España to watch the sunset! 📍Highlight: Free but breathtaking! (Unfortunately, no sunset this time) 🔥 Must-try: · Row a boat! €6/boat/35min, see the plaza’s reflection in the canal, super romantic! · Find your hometown tile bench: The benches in the gallery represent every city in Spain · Watch Flamenco performances: Free impromptu shows in the plaza, very authentic! 📸 Best photo time: 1 hour before sunset! Golden light on the buildings is stunning! ⏰ Duration: 1.5h --- 🍽 8:30 PM: Eat Tapas in the Old Town! 📍Recommended area: Barrio Santa Cruz, full of hidden gem eateries!! --- 💡 Practical Tips for the whole trip: 1. Wear comfortable shoes: All cobblestone streets! 3. Sunscreen and hydration: Andalusian sun is very strong! 4. Safety first: Keep your bags secure in crowded places! 5. Book! Book! Book! Cathedral + Alcázar tickets must be purchased online in advance to save time and effort!

7-Day Spain & Portugal Itinerary: The Best of Both Countries! Enjoy stunning scenery, culture, and cuisine as you explore two countries and experience a different side of Europe! -- 🌟 Itinerary Overview: Day 1: City of Arts and Sciences - Casa Milà - Sagrada Família - Valencia Cathedral Visit the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, then explore the fantastical Casa Milà, admire the magnificent Sagrada Família, and finally experience the history of Valencia Cathedral. Day 2: Alhambra Spend the whole day exploring the Alhambra and marvel at the Moorish architecture and beautiful courtyards. Day 3: Plaza de España - Seville Cathedral - Alcazaba - Royal Alcázar of Seville Start at the spectacular Plaza de España, then visit Seville Cathedral, explore the ancient Alcazaba, and finally stroll through the Royal Alcázar of Seville. Day 4: Jerónimos Monastery - 25 de Abril Bridge - Padrão dos Descobrimentos - Belém Tower Experience the tranquility of Jerónimos Monastery, stroll across the 25 de Abril Bridge, admire the grandeur of the Padrão dos Descobrimentos, and finally visit the historic Belém Tower. Day 5: Cabo da Roca - Toledo - Toledo Cathedral Enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean from Cabo da Roca, then explore the ancient streets of Toledo, and finally visit the majestic Toledo Cathedral. Day 6: Plaza Mayor - Royal Palace of Madrid - Puerta del Sol - Plaza de España - Gran Vía Start at the bustling Plaza Mayor, then visit the Royal Palace of Madrid, stroll through Puerta del Sol, return to Plaza de España to experience a different side of the city, and finally explore the vibrant Gran Vía. Day 7: Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar - Aljafería Palace Visit the historic Basilica de Nuestra Señora del Pilar, and before ending your trip, explore the unique Aljafería Palace. 🎉 -- 🧳 Travel Essentials: What to Bring on Your Spain & Portugal Trip! 📄 Passport, visa, and ID card: Don't forget your travel documents. 💳 Credit card and some cash: Make shopping and payments easier. 🔌 Plug adapter: No more charging worries. 📱 SIM card: Stay connected. 👗 Seasonal clothing: Comfortable shoes for exploring. 🧴 Sunscreen and moisturizer: Stay beautiful on the go. 💊 Medications: Health and safety are important. -- On your Spain & Portugal trip, every step is a scenic view, and every moment is worth cherishing. We look forward to your next adventure and discovering more unique beauty!